On Tuesday, April 30, 2019, a tornado struck the Wheaton area in southwest Missouri, causing damage to businesses, homes, trees, and power poles. Notably, it damaged Southwest Auction Services LLC, a Dollar General, and nearby residences. The National Weather Service (NWS) in Springfield, Missouri, later rated the tornado an EF-1. It traveled 12 miles, from Stella to a point five miles northeast of Wheaton, with maximum wind speeds reaching up to 110 mph and a path width of about half a mile.
The NWS also confirmed an EF-0 tornado near Purdy, which damaged several outbuildings and uprooted trees. Significant damage was also reported in Miller, Ozark, Willard, and Rogersville. In addition, a brief tornado touchdown occurred southeast of Exeter, according to law enforcement.
Other nearby storm reports include:
Miller, Missouri: Multiple trees and power lines were downed, with some lines falling near damaged propane tanks. At least one home sustained extensive damage.
Lockwood, Missouri: Numerous trees were downed, and a structure was damaged, temporarily trapping individuals inside. Fortunately, there were no injuries; the family was relocated by the Red Cross.
Near Monett: A house suffered significant structural damage.
Downtown Cassville (west of the courthouse square): Multiple trees and limbs were downed, and at least one home sustained structural damage.
Counties affected: Barry and Newton
Resources:
NWS Springfield, MO
The Monett Times